10 Best Grains for Dogs: The Top Grains for Happier Tails (2024)

In light of the growing popularity of grain-free diets for dogs, numerous pet owners have raised concerns regarding the safety of incorporating grains into pet food. Some are even wondering: what are the best grains for dogs?

As gluten-free choices gained favor in human nutrition, fur-rents started to question the advantages of grains for their four-legged friends. While some dogs may experience sensitivities to grains or gluten, the majority of them flourish on a diet that includes grains.

In contrast to wolves, domestic dogs are omnivorous. Most grains are safe for your canine companion to consume, although it's advisable to exercise caution and restrict certain grain by-products in your dog's diet.

Certain grains offer superior nutritional advantages and are regarded as higher-quality components. When selecting dog food, it's essential to seek out products that incorporate whole grains rather than heavily processed alternatives.

Many dog owners opt for grain-free diets to steer clear of gluten, but it's important to note that not all grains contain gluten. For dogs with sensitivities, unconventional ingredients may serve as a more suitable option. Ancient grains such as quinoa, for instance, provide a richer nutrient profile compared to conventional choices.

There exists a variety of grain options for your dog's consumption, and pet owners strive to provide their dogs with a well-balanced diet to fulfill their nutritional requirements. As you delve into this article, you'll discover various grain types and whether they are appropriate for your canine companion's diet.

But First…What Is a Grain?

Whole grains maintain their natural state, having only the outer husk removed. They supply carbohydrates, which dogs convert into energy for various activities. The starch derived from carbohydrates helps your dog feel satisfied after a meal.

Incorporating grains into your dog's diet can also contribute to dental health by reducing tartar buildup. Additionally, the inclusion of carbohydrates in dry dog food enhances its shelf life and makes it more appealing to your furry friend.

Best Grains for Dogs

1. Brown Rice

Rice stands out as a grain abundant in vitamins and minerals. Brown rice, categorized as a whole grain due to its retained outer layer, sets it apart from white rice. This outer layer is primarily composed of fiber and essential nutrients.

In addition to fiber and carbohydrates, brown rice is a rich source of B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism and enzyme functions. It also serves as a natural reservoir of magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin E.

For dogs experiencing digestive discomfort, both brown and white rice can offer relief. However, white rice is often recommended for soothing your dog's upset stomach.

2. Barley

Barley, a commonly used cereal grain as a carbohydrate source in dog food, is often associated with beer brewing but serves as a popular alternative to corn and wheat.

Barley boasts an exceptionally high energy content compared to other grains, making it an ideal choice for active dogs requiring increased carbohydrate intake. Similar to rice, barley is also rich in B vitamins.

In many formulas, you'll find pearled barley, which is a processed version of barley with the outer husk removed. Non-hulled barley, referred to as barley groats on pet food labels, represents an excellent source of fiber for dogs. While less common, barley groats are the preferred form of this grain.

3. Oats

Oats rank among the most nourishing grains, benefiting both human and canine diets. They are rich in protein and contain relatively low levels of gluten, making them a preferred choice in formulations for dogs with sensitivities to corn, wheat, or other grains.

While dogs typically digest animal protein more efficiently than plant-based protein, incorporating oats can enhance the protein content of meat-based diets. Additionally, the low glycemic index of oats aids in blood sugar control, and the soluble fiber found in whole oats contributes to cholesterol management.

Oats, often labeled as oatmeal in dog food, are a premium ingredient crafted from finely ground whole oats. They are an excellent choice for pet owners seeking to provide a non-GMO diet for their furry companions.

4. Whole Wheat

Wheat is a commonly used primary ingredient in dry dog food formulations. Wheat contains gluten, and some dogs may have allergies to it. However, for most dogs, whole wheat can be a valuable component of a well-rounded diet.

Domestic dogs can safely consume and digest wheat. This grain serves as an excellent source of easily digestible carbohydrates, which provide energy for your dog. Additionally, wheat can offer complementary protein in meat-based dog food formulations.

The preferred form of wheat for dogs is whole wheat. Whole grains consist of intact grain kernels, including the outer layer known as wheat bran, which is high in fiber. Fiber functions as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria in your doggo's digestive system.

5. Rye

Rye, containing gluten, may not be suitable for dogs with gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, or grain intolerance. However, certain dog food manufacturers favor rye as a carbohydrate source in weight management formulas. Rye shares a nutritional profile similar to barley, including the presence of vitamin B and dietary fiber.

Interestingly, some studies suggest that despite its high energy content, rye may offer benefits for weight management, blood sugar regulation, and heart health.

When left unprocessed, rye boasts a higher fiber content compared to wheat. While dogs typically don't rely on fiber as their primary energy source, a high-fiber content can assist dogs in controlling their food intake, preventing overeating.

6. Quinoa

Quinoa, a nutritious grain that humans enjoy, can also be safely consumed by dogs in moderation. High-quality dog food formulas that contain grains sometimes incorporate quinoa, offering a healthier alternative to the more common starchy ingredients like corn and wheat found in kibble.

It's no surprise that quinoa is gaining popularity as a primary grain in dog food! This ancient grain is rich in nutrients and contains a significant amount of calcium, which is an essential mineral for canine bone development.

While some pet owners may be concerned about the presence of saponin in quinoa, a natural chemical that can potentially irritate a dog's intestines, the small amount of saponin found in quinoa is generally considered safe and unlikely to cause health issues when consumed in normal portions.

7. Sorghum

Sorghum, an ancient grain often hailed as a ‘superfood' in pet formulations, stands out for its gluten-free nature and superior nutritional profile compared to most traditional grains.

This cereal grass is on par with rice in terms of digestibility but comes with the advantage of a lower glycemic index, making it a potentially beneficial addition to grain-inclusive diets for pets dealing with diabetes. Moreover, essential fatty acids found in sorghum exert antioxidant effects within your canine companion's body.

Sorghum's impressive mineral content includes phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and zinc, offering a natural dietary source of these essential nutrients. These natural sources of vitamins and minerals are generally more readily absorbed by your dog's body compared to artificial mineral supplements sometimes used in commercial dog foods.

8. Corn

While corn is a common ingredient in grain-inclusive dog food, it can be a subject of controversy due to potential allergies in some dogs. However, for most canines, corn is a safe dietary component rich in digestible carbohydrates and nutrients.

It's true that some of the other ancient grains mentioned in this list offer more robust nutritional profiles. Nevertheless, corn, which is both affordable and readily available, contains substantial amounts of vitamin E and beta-carotene. Additionally, it supplies essential fatty acids that contribute to the health of your dog's coat.

Regrettably, many dog food products that contain corn incorporate by-products like corn gluten meal. It's advisable to opt for dog foods that use whole corn ingredients to maximize the nutritional benefits. It's important to note that the primary ingredient in any dog food formula should be meat, not corn.

9. Millet

Millet, a small seed commonly found in wild bird food, serves as a suitable ingredient for omnivore-friendly dog food. Its popularity in this regard is on the rise, as it closely resembles the grains that dogs' ancestors would have consumed through the stomach contents of prey animals.

Furthermore, millet is a gluten-free option, making it a favored choice for dogs with gluten sensitivities who still require grains in their diet. Additionally, millet boasts high levels of antioxidants, which contribute to enhancing your dog's immune system.

In contrast to most grains, millet contains a higher fat content, providing a valuable source of sustained energy in your canine companion's diet. While carbohydrates are utilized for quick-burning energy, fat offers a slower-burning energy source.

10. Other Ancient Grains

One of the initial queries that may come to mind is, “What exactly are ancient grains?” The phrase “ancient grains” pertains to grain varieties that have remained remarkably unchanged over extended periods. While many plants and animals undergo evolutionary changes with time, ancient grains have preserved their original characteristics.

Ancient grains dog food can incorporate various ingredients while still being considered an optimal dietary choice for the well-being of dogs. Here are a few illustrations of the diverse ancient grain types utilized in dog food:

• Amaranth
• Barley
• Brown Rice
• Flaxseed
• Oats
• Millet
• Quinoa
• Rye
• Sorghum
• Whole Wheat

Ancient grains are regarded as superfoods for dogs, with each grain variety offering unique advantages. These grains retain their nutrients because they haven't undergone refining processes like white rice and other grains.

The refinement of grains results in the loss of their nutritional value, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which occurs during the milling process. This depletion of nutrients can hinder your dog's ability to obtain the essential elements necessary for a healthy life.

Word of Caution

While certain grains can offer nutritional value in your dog's diet, it's essential to steer clear of lower-quality ingredients. Opting for high-quality whole grains is the best choice for ensuring your dog's health.

However, it's crucial to note that dogs with intolerances may still experience adverse reactions to whole grains if they happen to be allergic to a particular grain. Wheat and corn are common grain allergens, and for sensitive dogs, exploring rarer ancient grains might be a more suitable alternative.

On many dog food labels, you'll come across grain by-products, often included due to their cost-effectiveness. Yet, these leftovers from the manufacturing process typically have lower nutritional value compared to whole grains.

While lower-quality cereal grains and by-products can be safe pet food ingredients, minimizing their presence in favor of high-quality grains with greater health benefits can help you craft an optimal diet for your dog.

By-products refer to secondary ingredients generated during the production of something else. Although considered safe for dogs, most grain by-products are essentially waste products not intended for human consumption.

These grain-related ingredients find their way into dry dog food primarily for their convenience and affordability, rather than their nutritional value. Choosing a formula that incorporates whole-grain ingredients instead of grain by-products ensures that your dog's diet prioritizes health over cost-saving measures.

When seeking a grain-inclusive pet food, it's advisable to limit the inclusion of these grain-related products in your selection.

• Wheat Gluten
• Wheat Middlings
• Cereal Fines
• Grain Hulls
• Corn Gluten Meal

Aforementioned grain-related products are incorporated into dry dog food primarily for cost-effectiveness and ease of use, rather than their nutritional benefits.

Opting for a dog food that utilizes whole-grain ingredients rather than by-products demonstrates a prioritization of your dog's health over financial considerations.

Potential Dangers of a Diet Without Grains

While certain grain-inclusive ingredients may pose concerns, it's essential to be aware of the risks associated with eliminating grains from your dog's diet. The FDA has recently initiated an investigation into a potential connection between grain-free diets and a canine heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

DCM is a condition that impairs a dog's ability to effectively pump blood throughout its body. The FDA's research has indicated a correlation between DCM, grain-free dog food, and taurine deficiency.

Although the exact mechanism linking grain-free diets to DCM remains unclear, this association underscores the importance of cautious feeding choices. In general, it is advisable to opt for a grain-inclusive dog food that does not contain legumes or peas, unless specific allergies or dietary issues necessitate a different approach.

Taurine, an amino acid crucial for heart health due to its role in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, is typically sourced from animal meats. However, some grains contain taurine precursors.

Grain-free formulations often substitute potatoes and legumes as alternative sources of digestible carbohydrates. Unfortunately, these ingredients contain enzyme inhibitors that can disrupt taurine absorption in dogs, elevating the risk of heart-related conditions.

Benefits of Grains

While dogs can generate energy by converting fat and dietary protein into glucose, this does not negate the importance of grains in their diet. Consider the following reasons why opting for grains for your dog remains a beneficial choice:

1. It offers abundant quantities of vitamins and minerals.
2. Incorporating grains into a diet can lower calorie consumption while providing satisfying fiber.
3. Fiber has the capacity to maintain digestive system balance, act as nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria, and aid in the removal of toxins from the body.
4. The soluble fiber present in oats plays a role in stabilizing blood glucose levels, managing cholesterol, and improving the absorption of nutrients.
5. Dogs with kidney or liver conditions necessitating a reduced-protein diet, as well as those with pancreatitis and intestinal issues requiring a low-fat diet, can benefit from the energy provided by carbohydrates in grains.

Bottom Line

Grains are generally safe for dogs, with exceptions for those with grain allergies, though the likelihood of your dog having such an allergy is minimal. They serve as an excellent source of beneficial nutrients for dogs.

Before opting for a grain-free diet for your canine companion, it's wise to consider the advantages of selecting dog foods that incorporate wholesome whole grains. While some pets may experience food allergies related to gluten sources like wheat, it's important to note that dogs, as omnivores, can thrive on diets that include grains.

Carbohydrates derived from grains provide dogs with a valuable energy source. Active dogs or breeds with high metabolisms may not receive the necessary energy levels from grain-free diets. The whole grains featured in this list are dependable energy sources suitable for most dogs.

It's worth noting that most food allergies or adverse reactions linked to grains often involve by-products. To maintain your dog's health, it's advisable to avoid such ingredients in favor of high-quality alternatives.

Consider experimenting with formulas that contain these grains to determine the best dietary choice for your beloved canine companion!